Table of Contents

Safety in Cambodia

Angkor "Ta Phrom" Temples. Image source: insider-journeys.com

In GeneralVisit your health professional at least 4 to 6 weeks before your trip to check whether you need any vaccinations or other preventive measures. There have been some cases of Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) in poultry in Cambodia.

Tourist VisaYour passport should be valid for a minimum period of 6 months . Tourist visas issued by a Royal Cambodian Embassy abroad may appear to have a longer validity than 1 month. The validity of the visa refers to time you have to enter Cambodia. The visa is valid for 30 days from the actual date of entry into Cambodia. Make sure your passport is stamped on arrival, and keep the departure form. If you lose your departure form, you’ll need to contact immigration officials before you leave the country to make alternative arrangements.

Additional infoYou can get a visa on arrival in Cambodia at the Dom Krolor checkpoint. There is also a river checkpoint at Vern Kham (9 km from the road checkpoint) but you can’t get a visa at this border crossing.

Stay longerYou can be fined, detained and deported if you overstay your visa. There is a fine of $10 per day for overstaying the validity term of your visa. There is no limit to this fine. Those who overstay more than 30 days will be required to leave Cambodia in addition to paying the fine.

Extend Visa Once you have your first 30-day ordinary visa for Cambodia, you can extend it from inside the country for 1, 3, 6, or 12 months. More details here

Is Cambodia Safe? From Travel Blogger Jolene Ejmont:People still question whether Cambodia is safe or not. Given its depressing history and the fact that landmines are still being uncovered in this day and age, I guess it is a fair question to ask. Be rest assured though that all touristy areas of Cambodia have been cleared from landmines. Despite its history of killings, Cambodia in 2016 is a perfectly safe country to visit, more safe I would say that a lot of other countries. Whilst we recommend exercising normal precautions to look after your belongings as you explore; just as you would in any other country; we found nothing but friendly, happy, smiling people who welcomed us with open arms to their country. We felt safe, safe enough to explore the majority of the major tourist destinations on our own terms, without having to be in tour groups or with guides. More here

Crime Foreigners present an attractive target for criminals. Violent crime is rare, although weapons have been used during robberies against foreigners. Although most visits are trouble-free.

Be vigilant, particularly in and around late night bars and don’t leave drinks unattended. Parties, including organised dance parties on islands off the coast of Sihanoukville as well as in other locations, may place you at risk of sexual assault, robbery, injury, arrest, and lost belongings, including travel documents.

TaxiTravelling as a passenger by motorcycle taxi (‘motodop’) is dangerous. Vehicles are poorly maintained and driving standards are low. There is also a risk of bag snatching, particularly in Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville.

By CarCambodia has one of the highest rates of road traffic accidents in the region. There are high numbers of fatalities and serious injuries. You’ll need a Cambodian driving licence to drive a vehicle, including a motorcycle. If you have an International Driving Permit, you can apply for a Cambodian licence.

Sea/River TravelDon’t board a vessel if you think it is overloaded. Life-vests and other safety equipment are not routinely provided, even on modern vessels. There have been attacks against ships in the South China Sea and surrounding seas.

Adventurous activities and swimmingIf you’re considering jungle trekking, use a reputable tour guide. There’s no licensing system for tour guides, so seek advice from other travellers, your hotel and look at online reviews before hiring a guide. Take care when swimming, diving, kayaking or white water rafting in rivers or close to waterfalls, particularly in the rainy season from May to October. Check a dive operator’s credentials carefully before using them and make sure you’re covered by your insurance.

Political situationCambodia will hold commune elections in June 2017 with a general election taking place in July 2018. It’s likely that political tensions will increase further in the run-up to these 2 events as CPP and CNRP begin their campaigning.

LandminesCambodia remains heavily affected by landmines and unexploded ordnance. Mined areas are often unmarked. Don’t stray off main routes in rural areas, including around temple complexes and don’t pick up metal objects.

AdditionalWhile there is good internet, wifi and mobile phone coverage in the main cities and towns of Cambodia, many of the islands and remote areas may not be covered. Make sure your friends and family are aware that you may be out of contact.

Be especially alert to the local security situation in border regions and at land crossings between countries. Seek local advice before you set off.

Heavy storms during the monsoon can cause disruption and damage including flooding and landslides. Travel to some provinces can be seriously disrupted during this time.

What to See

Angkor Wat This huge temple complex is the reason most people visit Cambodia. The temple ruins are massive, and you’ll need a few days to explore all of them. While there’s a lot more to the country than this UNESCO site (too many people only come to visit Angkor), no trip is complete without satisfying your inner Tomb Raider and exploring these ruins. If you’re not a history buff then just purchase a single-day ticket. Everyone else may want to consider the 3-day ticket, which offers a bit of a discount. Consider hiring a tuk-tuk for the day, otherwise, rent a bicycle and explore the ruins at your own pace.

Tonle Sap Sailing down this river allows you to get a look at how closely Cambodian life is tied to this major waterway. You can take a boat all the way down one end to the other or just cruise around on a day trip.

SihanoukvilleWhite sand beaches, nearby deserted islands, great diving, amazing seafood, and a heavy nightlife filled with cheap booze make this spot a favorite among travelers. This was once a very seedy town but has become a mecca for backpackers (although it’s still quite seedy). It’s not a quiet place to hang out, but it’s a good place to drink or use as a base to visit the nearby islands, which are quiet and serene. Check out Vagabond Temple while you’re there!

Phnom PenhAs the capital of Cambodia, this place has a wild west ambiance with dusty streets and a “devil may care” atmosphere. There are a few good attractions to see and an up-and-coming foodie vibe to the city. Since the destruction of the lake and the nearby backpacker area due to development, most of the action and hostels have moved towards the river.

The Killing Fields You can’t mention Cambodia without people drawing a connection to the country’s bloody genocidal past. Although a visit to the Killing Fields, located 10 miles from Phnom Penh, may not be the most cheerful way to spend an afternoon, it makes for a hallowing and memorable experience, a testament to the dangers of uncontested power.

Kep This beautiful beach town is the quiet version of Sihanoukville. a nice place to relax near the ocean without the party atmosphere that is Sihanoukville. This city is famous for its pepper crab and empty beaches. There’s not a lot to do here, so it also makes for a good day trip if you don’t like the idea of chilling out for a few days.

Bokor National ParkWander among the atmospheric French ruins while hiking a great rainforest. Bokor was a big destination for the French aristocracy back in the day, and you can see the ruins of their homes. It is a day trip from Sihanoukville or nearby Kampot.

BattambangKnown as a farming area and famous for its fading French colonial architecture, this is the place to get a real taste of Cambodian life. Here you’ll find great temples, a bamboo train, and stunning architecture. This destination sees few tourists except for those who like to get off the beaten path and off the Siem Reap-Phnom Phen trail. It’s Cambodia without the tourism — for now! Try taking a river boat back to Phnom Phen or Siem Reap for a unique experience.

Prasat Preah VihearThis breathtaking mountain temple is the source of conflict with its neighbor Thailand, who also claims this place as its own. The trip here is not easy but nothing worth going to is ever is.

Visit a river village There are 3 floating villages to choose from in the country. The houses are built on bamboo stilts, and there are always boats filled with people selling trinkets, food, and hanging out. The Chong Khneas is the most visited in the country but popularity has made it a bit of a tourist trap recently.

Visit the pepper farms of Kampot Outside the city of Kampot (go there!) and on the way to Kep are vast pepper fields. This southern region of Cambodia is filled with pepper farms where you can learn about the history of the spice, see how it is grown, and pick up what is considered some of the finest pepper in the world. Tours are usually free, though you need to arrange transportation.

Koh Kong A city near the Thai border in the Cardamom Mountain district, Koh Kong offers great opportunities for jungle trekking, as well as a chance to relax on the white sand beaches. Koh Kong island is known as one of the best beach spots in Southeast Asia. It’s illegal to spend the night there, but there are plenty of operators offering day trips to the island from the shore.

Kampong Cham Though it’s the third-largest city in Cambodia, most travelers overlook Kampong Cham. The city has retained a lot of its old French colonial feel and a great place to really get to know Cambodia. While the city in itself is something to explore, you should also check out the ruins at Nokor Wat. One of the highlights here is a detailed series of murals which depict religious torture scenes.

Visit Kampot Most people come here to enjoy the scenic riverside views, as well as the rolling hills that surround the city. Since you can explore easily enough on foot or by bicycle, Kampot is a great place to slow down and relax. Don’t miss the pepper farms, the mangroves, and the national park.

Insider

Cheap CountryCambodia is one of the cheapest countries in Southeast Asia. There really aren’t any big money saving tips here because just by being here, you are saving money. Food, accommodation, and transportation are all dirt cheap so you don’t need to do much to save money but here are a few tips:

Minimize your drinksEvery drink is a dollar and before you know it, you’ve spent more money on beer than on food and accommodation. There’s no reason this country should cost you more than $20 USD per day but if you drink a lot, you’ll need a slightly higher budget.

Stay put You can usually negotiate a discount at a hostel if you stay for a week or longer.

Book tours and day trips as a group You have more negotiation power when you’re with a group of people buying multiple things. Traveling alone? Meet a friend at a hostel and see if they want to join the same tour as you.

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The NGO Map of Cambodia

Where to Volunteer

EFCCEducation (Phnom Penh)

Mission of The European Foundation for Cambodian Children (EFCC)Providing education, support and nutrition to disadvantaged children who`s parents have to work in the local dump to earn a living. Our main project is to provide a good standard of education and the prospect of a better future to these children that they otherwise would not have had.

Volunteer Programs Support Khmer teachers and staff at their daily tasks. Teach English, create and supervise out of class activities like sports and crafts for their children. You can also help in administration, fundraising and media work.

Mission of Tuk Tuk for Children (TT4C)Deliver children in rural areas quality education, sanitation, nutrition, and entertainment and to give children back their childhood. A large percentage of children work from a young age and miss out on quality formal and informal education. Supporting 6 Kindergartens in the morning and Tuk Tuk Theatre in the afternoons.

​Volunteer ProgramsThey offer many different volunteering opportunities both directly with their organization or partnering with others in their region. Skills include: helping write and illustrate children's books, creating teacher resources, art or construction projects, photography and social media creation, co-teaching English, Teacher training and Physiotherapist or similar professions.

Mission of Aziza’s Place A grassroots education and learning center transforming the lives of Cambodia's most underprivileged children. These young people come from the Steung Meanchey municipal dumpsite, slums and vulnerable families. Holistic programs and services providing children with opportunities in intellectual, emotional and physical development which are key to their advancement into adulthood.

​Volunteer Programs Help improve children's English level through creative group activities.

Mission of new hope for Cambodian childrenChildren with HIV/AIDS have the potential to live rich and full lives. They deserve family style care, necessary medicine, and a quality education, like other children their age. They work in partnership with the Royal Government of Cambodia, other NGO’s, and donors to provide care for our 300+ children.

Volunteer Programs Education and medical care for children. Spending time at the Village can have a lasting impact on a volunteer. For some, it has been a life-changing experience.

Mission of Volunteer in Cambodia VICVIC provides an opportunity for foreign volunteers to learn and experience life in Cambodia for 3 months which includes teaching English a 10-weeks course at Conversations With Foreigner (CWF) English school. CWF is an English school that was founded at the same time as VIC in 2006 and offers meaningful English courses to local students and able to generate sustainable income.

Volunteer Programs Teach Khmer students English at their language center. Cross-cultural dialogue between children and their teachers.

Mission of Learn4LifeLearn4Life is dedicated to providing high quality English language training to help prepare Cambodians in the Siem Reap area for advancement and new career opportunities in the years ahead. run by dedicated native English speaking volunteer teachers, for up to 400 students.

Mission of Grace House Community CentreOffering access to health care sanitation, clean water, dry homes, safe electricity and micro loans. Educating the children in English Language and ensuring they receive a state education. Encourage inclusion of children with disabilities in Siem Reap Province by enabling them to receive specialist education and a safe, caring environment for respite or long-term care.

Mission of CESHEOA grassroots charity (Registered NGO number 868) that provides a free education to over 750 students in the beautiful, but impoverished Cambodian countryside. We have 3 schools in two provinces that cater to students aged between 4 & 16 years old. Currently focus is on CESHEO no. 3 Chansor School which is located 35km from Siem Reap in a rural village.

Volunteer Programs Teaching English or general maintenance work like gardening or building.

Mission of SHE Rescue HomeAll girls, regardless of their age, are given the gift of education. Our goal is that every girl would reach a minimum of a Year 6 level, where they can read and write Khmer competently. They offering vocational training programs to give them a great training in the fields of hair and beauty, hospitality, tailoring, and cake baking and decorating. Including therapeutic and medical Services.

Mission of ABCs and RiceABCs and Rice differs to most NGO schools in Siem Reap. In addition to providing a much-needed free education in English and Khmer, they offer various food programs to nourish the children’s bodies as well as their minds. ABCs and Rice recognizes education as a right that every child should have, as well as the key to breaking the cycle of poverty.

Volunteer Programs Assisting the Khmer teacher with story time and other classroom support.

Mission of ACODOToday ACODO operates an orphanage in Siem Reap. The age of the children varies from 3 to 19. Children from extremely poor single parent families and disabled children. Many have experienced powerlessness in the ultimate form. Children learn to become tomorrow’s adults and to be independent, skilful, able to contribute towards society.

Volunteer Programs Teach English and being part of their family, provide support and care to their children.

Mission of COFCO Cambodia Orphan Family Center Organization called COFCO at Siem Reap, Angkor town. They children offering you the unique experience to take part in the Relief work of a localorphanage project. By providing an environment in Siem Reap where these children are loved, cared for and educated, COFCO is helping the orphans of Cambodia to build a sustainable, self-sufficient future.

Volunteer Programs Teaching English and playing games with the children. We can also perform our traditional Cambodian dances for you!

Mission of VDCAThe Volunteer Development Children's Association (VDCA) is a grassroots organisation and registered NGO in Siem Reap, in the Anlung Pi village. Providing free education and community programs to underprivileged children and families in Cambodia.

Volunteer Programs Support needed in education, in the nursery school and their feeding Program. With around 70 children to provide food, temporary housing, accommodation, education and in helping families establish a more sustainable future.

Mission of Cambodia Lost and FoundHelping abandoned children with food, clean water and education. Give the possibility of changing their lives. The orphanage is established and supports children in needs. With the continuing, generosity of tourists from all over the world who pass onto to find out about there mission and who volunteer with their effort, give donations to sustain their wonderful work.

Volunteer Programs The Volunteer Program is called The Sok Cambodia Children Orphanage (SCO). Teach English or give computer classes. Play games with the children do sport activities or give musical enrichment.

Mission of Smiling Hearts Association for Children (SHAC) Is an NGO in Siem Reap, Cambodia, an entirely charity-supported school with the goal of providing Cambodian students a good education. free education and a nurturing environment for children of their community can be achieved through hard work and passion. With over 230 students studying in 8 classes which are organized from kindergarten to 8th grade.

Volunteer Programs English teacher, assist classrooms or the office in administration, social media. Giving disadvantaged children, a stable and loving family environment.

Mission of Cambodian Children’s FundIs transforming the country’s most impoverished kids into tomorrow’s leaders, by delivering education, family support and community development programs into the heart of Cambodia’s most impoverished communities. working with children and families living in crippling poverty in the former dump community of Steung Meanchey.

Volunteer Programs The CCF Volunteer Program focuses on recruiting skilled volunteers with professional experience to assist. Check out their Current Volunteer Openings.

Mission of Cambodian Center for the Protection of Children's Rights (CCPCR)To eliminate all forms of violence against children and youth, including child labor, trafficking, sexual abuse and commercial sexual exploitation through intervention, rehabilitation and reintegration and to provide an education and life skills that will give survivors the ability to sustain their own futures with dignity.

Mission of Hope for Cambodian Children Hope for Cambodian Children is a community based organization that supports impoverished children to help them break down the barriers to realize their dreams for a better life. Hope for Cambodian Children provides a community outreach programs that supports vulnerable children and their families by providing education and healthcare.

Mission of The Green Gecko ProjectSupports over 70 children who previously lived and begged on the streets of Siem Reap, Cambodia. Green Gecko provides security, education, love and opportunities to these children through their formative years and into their adult lives, empowering them to achieve their full potential. long term health, education and training initiatives.

Volunteer Programs Propose a workshop program which will be suitable for their program Green Gecko. More details here

Mission of Cambodian Children's House of PeaceA local non-governmental organization which provides food, clothing, education, health care, recreation, arts, moral development and all the other things children need to grow and develop into proper citizens. Support the children who come from very poor families in our neighboring communities in Siem Reap, who lack sufficient nutrition, health care and the resources for attending school.

Volunteer Programs Teach English, spend time with the children, help out with administrative tasks; update their website, be active on social media watch out for new sponsors, assist with marketing, consulting and fundraising.

Mission of Sunrise New HopeProviding free education, medical and welfare services to the people of Mondul Bai. From humble beginnings as a grassroots organization, Sunrise New Hope has become an internationally respected non-government organization (NGO) supported by individuals, businesses and service organizations worldwide.

Volunteer Programs You can volunteer for the Sunrise New Hope Community School, Helen Bonner Medical Centre and the Community Outreach Program.

Mission of Anjali House The Sanskrit word “anjali” translates to “offerings” in English. Anjali House is a house of offerings for local children in need. In addition to ensuring the children are healthy and happy and providing them with both education and avenues for creative expression, with the aim to offer children skills and opportunities which will help them find success and fulfillment in the future.

Volunteer Programs Support the Khmer staff with your skills, ideas or experiences in assist the Khmer teachers. Also administrative help like updating their website, accounting, fundraising etc.

Mission of Self Help Community Centre (SHCC)The organization offers educational and vocational opportunities including English classes, Kindergarten classes, Social Work, Organic Farming, Arts and Crafts, Sports Education, Education on Hygiene, Nutrition and Environmental Issues. SHCC is a leader in providing sustainable development which directly benefits its community.

Volunteer Programs We welcome both Cambodian and International volunteers who have a range of skills, ideas, experience and knowledge in teaching, social work, HR, business, IT support, creative arts, sports, organic farming, administration and any other backgrounds that may be beneficial to our community and school.

Mission of Angkor Hospital for ChildrenEvery child has the right to a healthy life, treatments to Cambodia’s poorest children and their families, have been officially recognized as one of Cambodia’s few pediatric teaching hospitals and have created wide-reaching community outreach programs. All Cambodian children have access to high quality, compassionate care wherever they live and whatever their ability to pay.

Volunteer Programs Angkor Hospital for Children accepts qualified medical volunteers from a range of medical and nursing specialties.

Mission of Sustainable Cambodia Their aim is to support Cambodian villages so they can live sustainable and self sufficient. Support communities in education and their necessity of poverty which in rural areas of Cambodia still is a huge topic. Lack in health care, low level of education, missing economic opportunity and resources. Sustainable Cambodia makes a huge difference, in assisting these families.

Volunteer Programs Volunteer at their school in assisting teachers and classes. You may run your own classes in English or another relevant subject of your choice, depending upon the needs of the teaching staff.

Mission of SenhoaSenhoa's mission is to combat human trafficking and sexual exploitation through empowerment, advocacy and prevention programs. Their jewelry provides safe and dignified employment for at-risk women and survivor artisans. By purchasing and wearing their brand, consumers raise awareness against modern slavery. 100% of profits from their social business supports education and early intervention initiatives to protect and strengthen underprivileged communities.

Missionn of Honour Village CambodiaOffering schooling and extra learning for the community, a residential home for vulnerable and homeless children, and community support work in local villages. We employ 18 local staff from the surrounding area, both able-bodied and disabled, many of whom live with our residential family.

Volunteer Programs Volunteers will be asked either to act as play leaders or as assistants for longer-term class teachers in English or maths classes.

Mission of Life and Hope Association (LHA) A non-profit, non-governmental and an education-focused organization. We are committed to breaking the cycle of poverty by providing compassionate care and access to education to the poorest and most vulnerable in Cambodia – especially children and disadvantaged young women. Through five projects, we bring HOPE to the LIVES of hundreds of young women, and families.

Volunteer Programs Check out on their current position on their website like teaching English English at the sewing school, social worker/psychologist experienced with adolescents, a person with fundraising experience.

Mission of Build Your Future Today (BFT)Their main aim is to empower the Cambodian people with the right intellectual and economic tools to attain self-sufficiency. They believe that education is key to developing economic stability and personal well-being along with peace for the individual family, and hence the whole of Cambodian society.

Mission of Cambodia Rural School Trust (CRST)The NGO is providing the most assistance as possible to the most needy, as well as be fully accountable and transparent with where their funds are going. Today their projects include students in Primary School, High School and University, daily volunteering at a rural orphanage and community school and a vocational training center to name just a few.

Volunteer Programs You can volunteer with their students by joining them at their NGO's projects like their Monthly Community Service projects or attend their daily English classes.

Mission of The Ponheary Ly FoundationThe non-profit organization promotes access to quality education for children and young people in Siem Reap and Preah Vihear provinces in northern Cambodia. Guided by a UN human rights based approach, their work stems from the basic premise that access to schooling is fundamental to rebuilding the country’s civil society after the genocide of the 1970s.

Volunteer Programs Teach English, help in the arts & crafts program or get involved with robotic legos running at Tchey School. Help with there English program by host a spelling bee competition between two schools! Teach students new checkmate strategies, and more like dance, music, bicycle clinics, photography and video.